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by NewYork-Presbyterian
Your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical excellence, Health Matters features the latest news and insights from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our academic partners Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine. To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org
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- 1 weeks ago16 min
Understanding Breast Cancer Screening: Mammograms, MRIs, and More
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women, but advances in screening are helping detect cancers earlier and improve outcomes. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Janice Sung, radiologist and associate division chief of breast imaging at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, about today's breast cancer screening options and how women can better understand their personal screening needs.Dr. Sung explains why annual mammograms remain the foundation of breast cancer screening and reviews current recommendations for when screening should begin. She also discusses how family history, genetic mutations, and breast density can influence both risk and screening strategies.The conversation explores supplemental screening options, including breast ultrasound, MRI, abbreviated MRI, and contrast-enhanced mammography. Dr. Sung explains how these technologies work, why some tests are more sensitive than others, and how newer vascular-based imaging techniques are helping identify cancers earlier.Finally, she discusses the role of artificial intelligence in breast imaging, the move toward more personalized screening approaches, and why staying up to date with recommended screenings remains one of the most effective ways to reduce breast cancer mortality.Chapters00:00 – Why Breast Cancer Screening MattersHow screening helps detect cancer earlier, improves outcomes, and saves lives02:15 – Mammograms, Breast Density, and Screening GuidelinesWhen to start screening, what mammograms can and cannot detect, and how dense breast tissue affects imaging06:00 – Ultrasound, MRI, and New Screening TechnologiesHow supplemental screening works and when tests like MRI, abbreviated MRI, and contrast-enhanced mammography may be recommended09:15 – Genetics, AI, and the Future of ScreeningUnderstanding inherited risk, how artificial intelligence supports breast imaging, and the shift toward personalized screening Key Topics Covered· Breast cancer screening· Mammograms· Dense breasts· Breast density· Breast ultrasound· Breast MRI· Abbreviated MRI· Contrast-enhanced mammography· Breast cancer prevention· Early cancer detection· Breast cancer risk factors· Family history and breast cancer· BRCA mutations· PTEN mutations· Genetic testing· Artificial intelligence in healthcare· AI in breast imaging· Personalized medicine· Women's health· Cancer screening guidelines· Breast imaging· Breast cancer awareness· Screening recommendations· Preventive care Key TakeawayBreast cancer screening saves lives, and today's screening options are more personalized than ever. While annual mammograms remain the foundation of screening for most women beginning at age 40, factors such as breast density, family history, and genetic risk may make additional imaging tests appropriate. Talking with your healthcare provider about your individual risk can help ensure you're getting the screening that's right for you.Doctor BioDr. Janice Sung is a board-certified radiologist specializing in breast imaging. She is an attending radiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and professor of radiology at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Sung is experienced in all types of breast imaging and breast cancer diagnosis, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, as well as image-guided interventional procedures such as stereotactic breast biopsy, ultrasound-guided biopsy, MR-guided biopsy, and radioactive seed placement and wire localizations.Dr. Sung's research focuses on imaging for early breast cancer detection in women who are at intermediate and high risk for developing breast cancer. She has co-authored multiple scientific articles defining groups of women who will benefit from screening that is more intensive than routine, annual mammography. She is frequently invited to lecture on this and other topics in breast imaging. She also trains and supervises residents and fellows in interpreting breast-images and in interventional breast procedures. In recognition of her accomplishments, she has been named a Fellow of the Society of Breast Imaging.Dr. Sung re
- 3 weeks ago15 min
Why do UTIs Keep Coming Back?
Painful urination, frequent trips to the bathroom, and persistent discomfort are hallmark signs of a urinary tract infection, one of the most common bacterial infections, especially among women. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Larissa Rodriguez, urologist-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about what causes UTIs and why they are so common.Dr. Rodriguez explains how bacteria enter and infect the urinary tract, why women are at higher risk than men, and how factors such as menopause and changes in the vaginal microbiome can increase susceptibility to infection. She also discusses the symptoms of uncomplicated UTIs and the warning signs that an infection may have spread to the kidneys.The conversation explores the challenges of recurrent UTIs, including the role antibiotics can play in disrupting healthy bacteria and contributing to a cycle of repeated infections. Dr. Rodriguez shares current treatment strategies, explains why shorter and more targeted antibiotic courses are preferred, and discusses concerns about antibiotic resistance.Finally, she reviews emerging therapies and ongoing research, including methenamine, microbiome-based approaches, and vaccine development. She also separates fact from fiction when it comes to cranberry supplements, probiotics, hygiene myths, and other commonly discussed prevention strategies.Chapters00:00 – What Causes UTIs and Who Gets Them?Why urinary tract infections happen, why women are more susceptible, and common risk factors across the lifespan04:00 – Symptoms, Warning Signs, and Kidney InfectionsHow to recognize a UTI, when symptoms become serious, and signs an infection may have spread beyond the bladder05:40 – Recurrent UTIs and Antibiotic ResistanceWhy infections come back, how treatment works, and the importance of targeted antibiotic use08:15 – New Treatments, Prevention, and UTI MythsMethenamine, microbiome research, cranberry products, probiotics, and practical ways to reduce infection riskKey Topics CoveredUrinary tract infections (UTIs)Recurrent UTIsWomen's healthBladder infectionsKidney infectionsPyelonephritisUrologyUrinary symptomsMenopause and UTIsVaginal microbiomeAntibiotic resistanceUrine culturesUTI preventionMethenamineProbioticsCranberry supplementsD-mannoseVaginal healthPostmenopausal healthMicrobiome researchUTI vaccinesKidney healthAntibiotic stewardshipUrologic careKey TakeawayUTIs are extremely common, particularly among women, but recurrent infections should not simply be treated with repeated rounds of antibiotics. Understanding the role of the microbiome, obtaining proper testing, and working with a specialist when infections persist can help identify effective prevention strategies and reduce the risk of future infections.Doctor BioDr. Larissa Rodriguez is urologist-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and chair of the Department of Urology at Weill Cornell Medicine. She is a board-certified urologist with expertise in the surgical reconstruction of pelvic floor conditions. A clinical and basic scientist, Dr. Rodriguez has published more than 100 original studies in peer-reviewed journals such as the Journal of Urology, Urology, and Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. She is the principal investigator of the NIH-sponsored Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Urologic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) research network, which investigates the underlying causes of bladder pain syndrome and how best to treat it. Dr. Rodriguez has received numerous research grants and served as reviewer of multiple journals and member of study sections for the NIH, including its Kidney and Urologic Systems Function and Dysfunction Study Section. She has received multiple research awards from the American Urological Association as well as its Western Section, and the Society or Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine, and Urogenital Reconstruction (SUFU). In 2008, Dr. Rodriguez received SUFU’s Paul Zimskind Award, which honors physicians who are within 10 years of completing residency or fellowship and have made significant contributions to the field of pelvic medicine and voiding dysfunction, primarily through basic and clinical research.Dr. Rodríguez earned her bachelor's degree in mathematics from the Massachusetts Institute
- Sep 23, 202614 min
Feeling Stuck? Why Task Paralysis Happens
Nearly everyone has put off a task at some point, but task paralysis goes beyond simply procrastinating. It can leave people feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and unable to get started, even when they know something is important.In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Alyssa Ames-Sikora, a psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, about the psychology behind task paralysis and why so many people experience it.Dr. Ames-Sikora explains how competing brain systems influence motivation and decision-making, why anxiety and perfectionism can make tasks feel impossible to begin, and how too many choices can lead to decision paralysis. She also discusses research showing that procrastination is not a modern phenomenon and may even be observed in other species.The conversation offers practical tools for overcoming inertia, including breaking large projects into smaller goals, using the Pomodoro Technique, reducing distractions, and identifying the times of day when you're most productive. Dr. Ames-Sikora also shares guidance for parents who want to help children and teens develop stronger follow-through skills and healthier habits around completing tasks.Chapters00:00 – What Is Task Paralysis?How task paralysis differs from everyday procrastination and why humans have struggled with it throughout history04:45 – What Happens in the Brain When We Freeze?The roles of the limbic system, prefrontal cortex, anxiety, impulsivity, and decision overload07:15 – Perfectionism, Avoidance, and Getting UnstuckWhy important tasks can feel harder to start and how self-compassion and small wins can build momentum09:30 – Practical Strategies for Taking ActionThe Pomodoro Technique, reducing distractions, finding productive times to work, and helping kids develop follow-throughKey Topics CoveredTask paralysisProcrastinationAvoidanceExecutive dysfunctionDecision paralysisPerformance anxietyPerfectionismImpulsivityMotivationProductivityGoal settingBehavioral psychologySuccess spiralsPomodoro TechniqueTime managementFocus and attentionBrain developmentPrefrontal cortexLimbic systemDecision-makingAnxiety and productivitySelf-compassionParenting and motivationTeen developmentHealthy habitsKey TakeawayTask paralysis is often driven by anxiety, perfectionism, impulsivity, and feeling overwhelmed, not laziness. By breaking tasks into smaller, achievable steps, reducing distractions, practicing self-compassion, and focusing on progress instead of perfection, people can build momentum and move forward one step at a time.Doctor BioAlyssa Ames-Sikora, PhD, is a psychologist with NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia and an assistant professor of medical psychology (in psychiatry) at the Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CUCARD) - Westchester. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Rutgers University, received her master’s and doctorate degrees in clinical psychology from Georgia State University, and completed her predoctoral internship at Children's National Medical Center. Following this, she completed her postdoctoral fellowship at CUCARD-Westchester. Dr. Ames-Sikora specializes in the assessment and treatment of internalizing disorders that affect youth and their families, as well as providing evidence-based assessment and interventions for other concerns, including adherence to medical regimens, coping with chronic illness, adjustment to new diagnoses, and behavioral challenges. Her research interests have centered on the effects of parental psychopathology, parent-child communication, emotion flexibility, emotion socialization, and the quality of interpersonal relationships. Dr. Ames-Sikora's dissertation investigated the effect of maternal depression on the flexibility of her emotionally expressive behaviors during interactions with her school-aged child.
- Sep 9, 202615 min
Is Your Snoring a Sign of Sleep Apnea?
Snoring may be a nuisance, but for some people it can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, a common condition that disrupts breathing during sleep and can have serious health consequences if left untreated.In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Ana Krieger, director of the Center for Sleep Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about what causes snoring, how sleep apnea develops, and why so many people unknowingly live with the condition.Dr. Krieger explains how sleep affects virtually every system in the body, from the brain and cardiovascular system to memory and cognitive function. She discusses common symptoms of sleep apnea, risk factors such as age, weight changes, alcohol use, and menopause, and the importance of testing when symptoms arise.The conversation also explores treatment options ranging from CPAP therapy and dental devices to newer treatment approaches, while offering practical advice for improving sleep hygiene and building habits that support better sleep and long-term health.Chapters00:00 – Snoring, Sleep Apnea, and What Causes ThemWhat happens in the airway during sleep, why people snore, and how sleep apnea develops04:00 – Symptoms and Warning Signs of Sleep ApneaCommon symptoms, hidden signs, risk factors, and why many people don't realize they have sleep apnea06:30 – How Sleep Affects the Brain and BodyThe role of sleep in memory, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being10:45 – Sleep Apnea Treatments and Better Sleep HabitsCPAP therapy, dental devices, newer treatment options, and practical tips for improving sleep hygieneKey Topics CoveredSnoringSleep apneaObstructive sleep apneaSleep disordersSleep studiesSleep testingSleep healthCognitive healthMemory and sleepBrain healthCardiovascular healthAtrial fibrillationSleep deprivationSleep qualityCPAP therapyMandibular advancement devicesSleep apnea treatmentsSleep hygieneInsomnia and stressMenopause and sleep apneaAlcohol and sleepHealthy sleep habitsBreathing during sleepSleep medicineKey TakeawaySnoring is often harmless, but it can also be a sign of sleep apnea, a common condition that affects breathing, sleep quality, and overall health. Recognizing symptoms early, seeking evaluation when needed, and prioritizing healthy sleep habits can help improve sleep, protect brain and heart health, and enhance quality of life.Doctor BioDr. Ana Krieger is director of the Center for Sleep Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medicine. She is a professor of clinical medicine in the Departments of Medicine, Neurology and Genetic Medicine and chief of the Sleep Neurology Division in the Department of Neurology at Weill Cornell Medicine. She is a board certified specialist in Sleep Medicine by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.Dr. Krieger also holds board certifications in internal medicine and pulmonary medicine and has a master’s degree in global public health with emphasis in healthcare policy and management. Over the past 25 years, Dr. Krieger has been actively involved in providing comprehensive patient care in sleep medicine, overseeing the Center for Sleep Medicine, a group practice that evaluates over 1,000 patients each month in New York City.She is also actively involved in medical and subspecialty education and research. As a clinician scientist, Dr. Krieger is the principal investigator in collaborative multidisciplinary research projects in sleep medicine and has published extensively in the field.Her current research is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation. She serves as Chair of the Mentored to Independence (MTI) K99/R00 grant review committee at the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) at the NIH. Dr. Krieger is an active lecturer, regularly contributing to media efforts aiming at improving sleep health in the population. She is a Robert Wood Johnson Scholar, and Fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine, American College of Chest Physicians and American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
- Aug 26, 202615 min
How to Start Running and Stay Injury-Free
Running is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, offering benefits that extend far beyond cardiovascular fitness. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Morgan Busko, a sports medicine physician at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia and a competitive triathlete, about the physical and mental rewards of running. Dr. Busko explains why strength training is a critical foundation for runners and discusses how exercises that target the core and gluteal muscles can improve stability and help prevent injuries. She also breaks down the differences between dynamic warmups and static stretching, explaining how proper preparation can support healthier training. The conversation covers practical strategies for runners at every level, from walk-run programs for beginners to training plans for race day. Dr. Busko shares advice on gradually increasing mileage, building endurance safely, and avoiding common training mistakes that can lead to injury. Finally, she discusses the important roles sleep, nutrition, hydration, and recovery play in athletic performance, debunks the myth that running causes arthritis, and offers encouragement for anyone looking to start or return to running. Chapters 00:00 – Why Running Is Good for Body and Mind The physical and mental health benefits of running and why runners keep coming back 03:00 – Getting Started and Building Strength How to return to running after a break, why strength training matters, and exercises that help prevent injuries 06:20 – Training Smarter and Avoiding Injury Dynamic warmups, walk-run programs, race preparation, and common training mistakes 10:00 – Recovery, Fueling, and Running for the Long Term Sleep, nutrition, hydration, injury warning signs, and the myth that running causes arthritis – and tips to enjoy the sport Key Topics Covered Running Running for beginners Sports medicine Running and mental health Cardiovascular health Strength training for runners Injury prevention Core strength Glute strength Dynamic warmups Static stretching Race training Marathon training 5K training Walk-run method Running recovery Sleep and athletic performance Sports nutrition Hydration for runners Energy gels Running motivation Running injuries Arthritis and running Sports performance Healthy exercise habits Key Takeaway Running can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen the body, reduce stress, and support overall well-being, but success starts with a thoughtful approach. Building strength, progressing gradually, prioritizing recovery, and listening to your body can help prevent injuries and make running a sustainable, rewarding part of a healthy lifestyle. Doctor Bio Morgan Busko, MD is a sports medicine physician at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia specializing in the non-operative treatment of chronic and acute musculoskeletal injuries and conditions in adult and pediatric patients. She has a particular interest in endurance athletes, running and overuse injuries, and injury prevention. After completing a residency in Internal Medicine at New York University, where she also received her Medical Degree, Dr. Busko completed a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Wake Forest University. She received her B.S. in Biological Anthropology and Anatomy at Duke University, where she competed in Cross-Country and Track & Field. Dr. Busko is an active endurance athlete who has competed in the Hawaii Ironman World Championship five times, finishing amongst the top triathletes in the world. She finds great reward in helping athletes return to sport safely while facilitating an athlete's ability to reach their optimal athletic performance. She hopes that her passion for exercise as medicine will be contagious to her patients and everyone around her.
- Aug 12, 202617 min
Why Quitting is So Hard: Understanding Addiction
Addiction affects millions of people, yet stigma and misunderstanding often prevent people from seeking help. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Jonathan Avery, an addiction psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about the realities of addiction and recovery. Dr. Avery explains that addiction is more than a problem of willpower. Drawing on research and clinical experience, he discusses how genetics, mental health, trauma, social factors, and brain chemistry all play a role in the development of substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. The conversation examines how addictive behaviors, from alcohol use and opioid dependence to gambling and social media use, affect the brain's reward system and why quitting can be so difficult. Dr. Avery also shares how newer treatments, including medications and emerging research on GLP-1 medications, are changing the landscape of addiction care. Finally, Dr. Avery discusses the importance of reducing stigma, building supportive communities, and recognizing that recovery is possible. He offers practical advice for people who may be struggling themselves as well as guidance for supporting loved ones with compassion and understanding. Chapters 00:00 – What Is Addiction? Why addiction is more than a substance, the role of trauma and mental health, and what happens in the brain 05:05 – Gambling, Screens, and Modern Addictions How behavioral addictions affect the brain and why smartphones have changed the landscape 09:00 – Treatment, Recovery, and New Hope Available therapies, medications, emerging GLP-1 research, and why most people do get better 11:30 – Breaking Stigma and Supporting Recovery Why connection matters, how addiction overlaps with mental health, and ways to support loved ones Key Topics Covered Addiction Recovery Substance use disorders Alcohol use disorder Opioid addiction Fentanyl epidemic Behavioral addictions Gambling addiction Social media addiction Gaming addiction Nicotine and vaping Dopamine and reward pathways Withdrawal Mental health and addiction Trauma and addiction Addiction stigma Recovery support Community and connection Addiction treatment Medication-assisted treatment GLP-1 medications Self-medication hypothesis Depression and addiction Anxiety and addiction Addiction psychiatry Key Takeaway Addiction is a complex health condition influenced by brain biology, mental health, life experiences, and environment, not simply a lack of willpower. While quitting can be challenging, effective treatments, supportive communities, and growing understanding of addiction are helping more people achieve lasting recovery. Reaching out for help is often the first and most important step. Bio: Jonathan Avery, M.D., is an addiction psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and vice chair of addiction psychiatry, a professor of clinical psychiatry, and the Stephen P. Tobin and Dr. Arnold M. Cooper Professor in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. He is the program director for the addiction psychiatry fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine. He also serves as the medical director of the NBA’s Anti-Drug Program. Dr. Avery graduated from the New York University School of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. During residency, he was selected as a Group for the Advancement of Psychiatry Fellow, served as co-chief resident in his final year, and received several awards for his clinical and academic work. He then completed a fellowship in addiction psychiatry at the New York University School of Medicine before joining the faculty at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Avery has published widely in addiction psychiatry, with work spanning clinician attitudes toward patients with addiction, treatment approaches for substance use disorders, and the intersection of mental illness and addiction. He is the founder of the NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine Program for Substance Use and Stigma of Addiction, and his research on stigma has been supported by multiple national grants and awards. He has served on the editorial board for the DSM-5 Clinical Cases book and is the editor and author of more than 10 books, including Co-occurring Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders: A Guide to Diagnosis and Treatmen
- Jul 29, 202615 min
How to Improve Your Posture and Prevent Tech Neck
Back and neck pain have become increasingly common in the digital age. Many of us spend hours each day sitting at desks, working on computers, or looking down at our phones, often without realizing the impact these habits can have on our spine. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Joseph Lombardi, an orthopedic spine surgeon at Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian, about why posture matters and what happens when poor positioning places excess strain on the neck and back. Dr. Lombardi explains the mechanics of the spine and how spinal discs function as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. He discusses the phenomenon known as "tech neck" or "text neck," describing how tilting the head forward dramatically increases stress on the cervical spine and may contribute to disc degeneration over time. The conversation also covers practical ways to support spinal health. Dr. Lombardi shares tips for setting up an ergonomic workstation, explains why sitting and slouching increase pressure on the lower back, and discusses the importance of taking movement breaks throughout the day. Finally, he highlights exercises that can strengthen the core and support better posture and outlines warning signs that may indicate a more serious spinal condition requiring medical attention. Chapters 00:00 – Tech Neck and the Hidden Stress on Your Spine How looking down at phones and computers increases strain on the neck and what happens to spinal discs over time 03:58 – Why Posture Matters for Long-Term Spine Health The connection between poor posture, disc degeneration, sciatica, and age-related changes in the spine 06:30 – Ergonomics, Sitting, and Building Better Habits Simple workstation adjustments, standing desks, movement breaks, and ways to reduce pressure on the spine 09:00 – Exercises, Prevention, and When to See a Doctor Core-strengthening exercises, healthy movement habits, warning signs of serious spinal issues, and practical tips for lifelong spine health Key Topics Covered Posture and spine health Tech neck and text neck Neck pain Back pain Disc degeneration Spinal discs and biomechanics Ergonomic workstations Standing desks Sitting posture Slouching and spinal stress Core strength Lumbar support Bird dog exercise Planks and core stability Sciatica Cervical spine health Lower back pain Sedentary lifestyles Healthy aging and the spine Physical therapy Spine injury prevention Orthopedic spine surgery Workplace ergonomics Musculoskeletal health Key Takeaway Good posture is about more than standing up straight. Everyday habits like looking down at a phone, slouching at a desk, and sitting for long periods can place significant stress on the spine and contribute to pain and disc degeneration over time. By improving workstation ergonomics, staying active, strengthening the core, and addressing symptoms early, people can take meaningful steps to protect their spine and support long-term musculoskeletal health. Doctor Bio Dr. Joseph Lombardi is an orthopedic spine surgeon specializing in the operative management of spinal disorders in adult and adolescent patients. His practice is focused on minimally invasive surgical treatments for both common and complex spinal conditions, including disc herniation, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and spinal deformity. Dr. Lombardi leverages the latest surgical technology – robotics, guided navigation, and advanced instrumentation – to provide patients with tailored surgical procedures, accelerated recovery times, and superior outcomes. After receiving his undergraduate and medical degrees from The George Washington University in Washington, DC, Dr. Lombardi went on to complete his post-doctoral residency training in orthopedic surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center where he served as chief resident. Dr. Lombardi remained at Columbia and Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian for fellowship training in advanced adult and pediatric spine surgery. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Lombardi is involved in training future surgeons as an assistant professor and vice chair of clinical research for Columbia University's Department of Orthopedic Surgery. As vice chair, Dr. Lombardi works closely with the orthopedic surgery research leadership team
- Jul 15, 202614 min
The Rise of Cancer in Young Adults—and What's Giving Experts Hope
Cancer has long been associated with aging, but in recent years, doctors have seen an alarming rise in colorectal cancer and other cancers among younger adults. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Dorna Jafari, chief of colorectal surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, about what may be contributing to this growing public health concern. Dr. Jafari explains that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in people under age 50 and discusses the "birth cohort effect" researchers have identified among people born after 1960. She explores several factors that may be influencing cancer risk, including changes in diet, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, disruptions to the gut microbiome, antibiotic exposure, and the growing presence of microplastics in the environment. The conversation also focuses on prevention. Dr. Jafari shares practical steps people can take to support a healthy microbiome and reduce cancer risk, including increasing fiber intake, staying physically active, limiting sugary beverages, and making realistic lifestyle changes over time. Finally, she discusses the exciting advances changing the future of oncology. From targeted cancer therapies and immunotherapy to AI-assisted diagnosis and improved screening tools, Dr. Jafari explains why cancer outcomes continue to improve and why early detection remains one of the most powerful tools available—especially when it comes to colorectal cancer screening. Chapters 00:00 – Why Are More Young People Getting Cancer? Understanding the rise of early-onset cancers and why colorectal cancer rates are increasing in adults under 50 03:15 – Diet, Microbiome, and Environmental Risks How ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, antibiotics, and microplastics may influence cancer risk 07:20 – New Advances in Cancer Treatment The shift toward targeted therapies, immunotherapy, AI, and personalized cancer care 10:15 – Screening, Prevention, and Living Healthier Why colonoscopies remain the gold standard and the lifestyle habits that can help lower risk Key Topics Covered Early-onset colorectal cancer Rising cancer rates in young adults Colorectal cancer mortality trends Ultra-processed foods and cancer risk Sugar-sweetened beverages Gut microbiome health Antibiotic exposure and cancer Microplastics and potential health effects Fiber and digestive health Cancer prevention strategies Targeted cancer therapies Immunotherapy Artificial intelligence in oncology Colonoscopy screening Blood-based cancer screening tests Fertility preservation during cancer treatment Holistic cancer care Cancer survivorship and outcomes Key Takeaway While cancer is increasingly affecting younger adults, there are meaningful steps people can take to reduce their risk. Prioritizing screening, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber, limiting ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks, staying active, and paying attention to symptoms can make a difference. At the same time, advances in targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and AI-driven diagnostics are helping improve outcomes and offering new hope for the future of cancer care. Doctor Bio Dr. Mehraneh Dorna Jafari is chief of colorectal surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital and associate professor of surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine. She is the director of clinical research in the department of surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. She is board-certified in general surgery and colon and rectal surgery. Dr. Jafari specializes in the comprehensive care of colorectal cancer patients, patients with peritoneal surface disease as well as those patients with benign colorectal disease. Dr Jafari works with a world-renowned group of multidisciplinary specialists to help promote a patient centered treatment plan for her patients, including radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, gastroenterologists, and interventional radiologists. Her goal is to provide precision medicine to patients that is safe and effective. Dr. Jafari has expertise in minimal access techniques, including laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. In addition, she has special interests in sphincter preserving surgery (helping rectal cancer patients avoid a permanent ostomy), maintain
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About Health Matters
Your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical excellence, Health Matters features the latest news and insights from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our academic partners Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine. To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org
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